Experiencing facial discomfort from time to time is normal. However, if you are suffering from jaw pain on a day-to-day basis, it’s time to pinpoint what’s triggering it. Because so many nerve endings connect the jaw, it can be difficult for the sufferer to identify what causes the aches and pangs. Continue reading if you are unsure about what is provoking your jaw pain.

1. Gum Disease

Did you know that nearly half of adults over 30 have gum disease? Contrary to its name, gum disease is not limited to the gums, and its menacing effects wreak havoc throughout the mouth. Gum (periodontal) disease develops due to the inflammation and infection of supporting bone and ligaments around tooth roots. If left untreated, gum disease can spread to the jaw, and mild to severe jaw pain may surface.

It’s important to note that gum disease will not go away on its own and will only worsen with neglect as time marches on:

• Gingivitis (the earliest stage of gum disease) is an infection that can be reversed with professional intervention. 
• However, full-blown periodontal disease is irreversible and will not go away on its own. In the most advanced stages of gum disease, tooth loss may occur.

2. Dental Decay

Although cavities may not be the most apparent explanation for jaw pain, toothaches induced by dental decay can progress to a point where they give rise to an uncomfortable disposition in the supporting bone. When a tooth decomposes to a point where the tooth root becomes infected, the infection can disseminate to the jaw and cause severe discomfort.

3. Emerging Wisdom Teeth

If you have not had your wisdom teeth removed, they may be the source of your discomfort, typically for one of the following reasons:

• Eruption: If you are a young adult, you may be experiencing growing pains. When wisdom teeth cut through the gums, it can cause slight swelling and soreness.
• Impaction: Generally speaking, a tooth becomes impacted when it does not have enough space to develop normally. Lack of room can lead to cavities, cysts, and gum disease. 

4. TMJ Disorder

A healthy temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull, acts like a sliding hinge, and controls jaw movement. On the flip side, an atypical TMJ can lead to misery; between 5 and 12% of people suffer from TMJ disorder. While the exact cause of an individual’s TMJ Disorder (TMD) can be challenging to determine, it can be a blend of multiple factors, including:

• Bruxism (habitually clenching or grinding the teeth)
• Misaligned jaws
• Genetics
• Arthritis
• Trauma

Seek Solace for Jaw Pain in Atlanta, GA

In a nutshell, jaw pain can be caused by multiple factors, and there may be no straight answer as to why you are experiencing it. On that account, avoid self-diagnosis and self-medication. Instead, the best next step is visiting an experienced dentist in your area if you are experiencing prolonged discomfort.

At Smiles for Grant Park, Dr. Abbey J. Lee can identify the cause of your specific jaw pain and offers a wide range of services to treat it:

• Periodontal disease treatment
• Tooth-colored fillings, root canal therapy, dental crowns for cavities
• Wisdom tooth extraction
• Nightguards and Invisalign® for TMJ disorder treatment and bruxism

Are you in Atlanta? Book an appointment at our local clinic by calling 404.328.7177 or messaging us online today.